Yohani – Island Girl Unraveling Exceptional Musicality

By Nithya

Yohani, one of Sri Lanka’s most talented, is a Singer, Songwriter and rapper who is currently making waves in the industry, showcasing a new story, a new side and an exceptionally new form to the music scene. An absolute powerhouse on stage with mesmerizing vocals, she is undoubtedly soulfully talented in all genres of EDM, Rock and R&B. As she displays her musical freedom as her prowess, we at Chokolaate are super excited for our cover story this time around!

Check out our YouTube interview ‘Pop The Question” with Yohani right here!

1. Describe yourself in 3 sentences

I’ve made a lot of tough decisions in life and it was all through following my gut.

My guitar is bae, nothing comes between us.

I can get a little crazy sometimes.

2. How would you describe your style?

I love new experiences. From exploring new places, to meeting new people, to understanding different cultures and opinions, my style – music and fashion included – comes from what I see and feel. I express my emotion through my style and it is something that is constantly evolving.

3.What’s it that makes you unique?

I wouldn’t consider myself unique. But, I can safely say that I always give everything I do a 200% of my commitment and I work hard.

4. Did you always want to pursue a career in music? If not, how did the breakthrough into the industry happen?

No. I got on Youtube in 2016, putting out a cover every now and then. I went to Australia to do my Master’s, still putting out covers on Youtube. Also, while working a job back home, it didn’t take me long to realize that the corporate life just wasn’t for me. Music made me happy and I knew it was what I wanted to do with my life. I came back to Sri Lanka looking to pursue a career in music, and that is also when Pettah Effect came into the picture. The team behind the scenes, the artists I worked with, the resources provided, all of the support, grooming and mutual love made me who I am today and we haven’t looked back since.

5. Who are your biggest musical Inspirations and influences?

Eminem, hands down. But, alongside him I am inspired and influenced by artists like Avenged Sevenfold, Dua Lipa, Rihanna, Ariana Grande and Above and Beyond.

6. What do you enjoy the most about being an artist?

This entertainment industry is one that celebrates what it means to live a life. What I enjoy the most is just waking up every day and being able to do what I love. Tell stories through my music, perform to the crowd, work with brilliant minds everyday among so many other beautiful aspects of being an artist. I love knowing that I am happy and that I have no regrets with what I do.

Read more in issue 55 of Chokolaate magazine online and in stores now.